The program featured a panel of reporters from different news outlets with different political perspectives gathered to discuss recent headlines in the news. And while they sometimes disagreed and always offered differing points of view, they did so in a way which was respectful and thoughtful and their discussion was more than the typical news headlines sound bytes. Absent was the sarcasm and dismissivness so many other similar programs. All in all, a refreshing difference from what we often hear. Toward the end of the program time was set aside for listeners to call in with questions and comments. One call in particular caught my attention. The caller took offense that the program provided a platform for a variety of different opinions.
“If this upsets you so much why do you listen?” The host asked.
The response. “Because I want to know what the enemy is thinking.”

The enemy?
Really
Not Isis.
Not Boko Haram.
Not terrorists.
But me?
Because I have a different perspective than you?
Because my experience is different than yours?
Because I do my best to listen to a variety of different perspectives before I make up my mind?
I know there are hate groups and fringe groups in this country, but the person who made that call and comment sounded like he could have been my next door neighbor. That was scary.

The host and the panelists didn’t respond to his comment.
That, I think, was a mistake.